GES recently conducted two regional conferences aimed at Spanish-speaking people. One was held in the Dominican Republic (DR). The other was in Tallahassee, FL.
The theme of the conference in the DR was the book of Hebrews. The theme in Florida was the book of Romans. Each explained how the focus book teaches Free Grace theology.
Both conferences were conducted in Spanish. They were also very well attended. In fact, they were the most well-attended regional conferences we have had in some time.
GES has made a concerted effort in recent years to produce Free Grace material in Spanish. A number of books have been published in Spanish, and a large number were purchased at the conference. We also publish a steady stream of Spanish blogs, and many conference attendees pointed out that they read these blogs.
Each conference had seven sessions, each followed by a time for questions and answers. The questions asked showed that the people understood the issues and the importance of the things discussed.
There is a lot to be excited about with these developments. There are a number of young people in these groups. These include young men who are interested in going into Christian ministry.
In the Spanish-speaking world, Calvinism has become a real issue. That was probably the number one remark heard at these conferences. The vast majority of preachers in these churches have been influenced by it. Many commentaries by Calvinist writers have been translated into Spanish. For many, it is the only theological system they know. Their theological books all support the system. In addition, a number of popular Calvinist speakers in the US conduct conferences in Spanish, and a large number of Spanish videos are available online.
The vast majority of attendees at these GES regional conferences are Free Grace. They see that the Bible supports it and are very excited that they have been exposed to it. They see the danger of Calvinism and are committed to getting the truth of Free Grace theology out to others. They have started doing Bible classes online that promote that theology. Groups in Mexico have joined in these classes. Some men have already gone to Mexico to teach. A regional conference is scheduled there in the spring of 2025.
The Tallahassee group plans to attend the GES national conference in May. Many of the folks are bilingual. They are hoping to have fifty people who can make the trip. That would be a real encouragement.
We all need to pray for this ministry. The people at both the DR and Tallahassee conferences were from various Spanish-speaking countries. Who knows what the Lord can accomplish through this group of believers?
I would also like to thank all those who support GES. This is just a part of what your support is doing around the world. Thanks to all those who help us with translations. Thanks to those who hosted these two conferences. At the Bema, I think these things will bring joy to the Lord and to us.
